Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Arviat (Jun 14/00) - After a slow start in October, the Rankin Inlet Cadet Corp., marked a strong finish at their recent annual awards ceremony.

The 3019 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps was in somewhat of disarray after losing one of its top instructors in a tragic land accident last year.

Cadet instructor Tim Hinds said with mostly new cadets and almost all new instructor, things were a little slow last fall.

More than 40 cadets paraded at different times with a regular nucleus of about 20.

"Emphasis was placed on drill, shooting, getting cadets uniformed and preparing them to attend camp," said Hinds.

"Both staff and cadets worked hard and the progress was impressive. We'll have at least nine cadets attending camp in Whitehorse in July and August for sessions of 11 days to six weeks."

RCMP Const. Henry Coman presented Rocky Airut with the Most Improved Cadet award at the ceremony. The award is given to the cadet who demonstrates the most consistent effort at improving their overall performance. After Alastair Sammurtok received the Perfect Attendance award, Hilary Reibero presented cadet Batiste Ussak with the Rookie of the Year award.

The award is given to the first-year cadet who demonstrates the best effort.

Sammurtok was back at the podium again to accept the Academic Achievement Award from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 005's Jean Brissette.

The award is given to the cadet judged to have the best academic performance as determined by their school.

Another highlight at the event was the Special Service Presentation for cadet instructor Jim Cameron.

Cadet instructor Michele Ashby said Cameron received the award for his outstanding dedication.

"Jim's efforts enabled the corps to carry on through a difficult period," said Ashby.

"Without him, we would not be here today."

In addition to Cameron, Ashby and Hinds, other instructors who volunteered their time were Paul Douglas, Kathleen Henderson, Sheila Milloy, David Qirqqut and Krzysztof Widla. Hinds said the Rankin corps hopes to build on this year's foundation and expand activities next season.

"Next year, we plan to include classroom work, first aid and fire extinguisher training, sports, fund-raising, citizenship activities and at least one local field training exercise.